MESSIAH LIFEWAYS MAGAZINE

SPRING 2019 ISSUE 15

The Comfort of Planning AheadLet the Games Begin!Meet the Mount Joy Country Homes resident participants of the Lancaster Senior Games

Balancing Proactive Health

EARLY INDICATORS OF DEMENTIA10

A HEALTHY ALTERNATIVEFLAXSEED

Alexander Pope’s Essay on Man states, “Hope springs eternal [in the human soul].” Our lives then are not so much about what happens to us or what God has planned for us, but that we have hope in Him and His promises. We must hope because without it, we can’t have faith. “Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see” Hebrews 11:1 (NLT).

As we spring into the season of renewal, it’s the perfect time to reaffirm our commitment to Messiah Lifeways’ core values to Live Responsibly and to Love Generously by being faithful stewards of ourselves and the community in which we live and work. We place a lot of attention—and rightly so—on providing excellent care and service to the older adults we serve on our campus and through our community based services. However, in order to do these things well, we also need to care for ourselves and to be good neighbors to others in the broader community. This issue of our magazine speaks to these important values and how they enable us to live out our mission.

We hope you enjoy this edition as it highlights a renewed sense of self and well-being, as well as the enduring spirit of purpose, faith, and service. Read about team member Mel Miller’s time spent volunteering with LightShine Ministries. We are blessed to have team members who love generously and give their time and talents freely to serve others. Learn about helpful balance exercises on pages 2 and 3 for a healthier you, and about the gainful outcomes of a recent resident in Wagner Transitional Rehab on page 4. Enjoy the incredible story of Mount Joy Country Homes residents, Paul and Joan Burke, as they celebrate their 21st year participating in the Lancaster County Senior Games!

These stories and more capture the spirit of faith, commitment, and hope, which enables each one of us to withstand, overcome, heal, and grow as a person. Thank you for your continued hope and faith in Messiah Lifeways®, and we look forward to continuing to grow with you.

Sincerely,

Curt Stutzman, President & CEO

Messiah Lifeways Magazine is published biannually at Messiah Lifeways, 100 Mt. Allen Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

From the President

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After firefighters arrived to protect the camp, they returned the next day. The fire raged on for weeks. Amazingly, 32,000 acres around the camp had burned, but the camp itself remained completely intact. It seemed as if God had preserved those 40 acres so that all of their hard work escaped unscathed.

We are tremendously blessed to have team members like Mel who act courageously, live responsibly, and love generously on a daily basis. If you’re interested in volunteering with LightShine Ministries, visit lightshineministries.org or join the group for their monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at Manheim Brethren in Christ Church in Mount Joy.

One of the things that makes Messiah Lifeways unique is its exceptional team members who live out our core values both on and off the clock. Each year, Mel Miller, Director of Construction Services, donates his time and talents by joining a team of people on a service trip to Alaska through LightShine Ministries. The groups go to some of the most rural areas of Alaska and help build youth ministry summer camps, work on drug and alcohol rehab centers, help native communities, volunteer with the World Eskimo & Indian Olympics, and more.

Mel recalls a story from one of his trips he will never forget. In 2015, Mel and his team were working at Globe Creek Camp, a Christian ministry camp one hour north of Fairbanks in the interior of Alaska, when smoke began to fill the air. Miles from cell service, a few members of the team drove nine miles to the top of a mountain where there was cell service to alert someone that a wildfire had started. On their way back to the camp, a fire marshall told them they couldn’t drive back because the fire was too strong and dangerous. Unwilling to abandon their teammates and explaining that there were others at the camp, the fire marshall told them to proceed. When they arrived, all 10 team members were there in a circle, holding hands and praying. They knew their teammates were in trouble and the fire was spreading quickly, but thankfully they were all able to escape to safety.

Act Courageously, Live Responsibly, and Love Generously

Mel Miller

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Time: Start at 5 seconds, when you get to the point where you feel comfortable add an additional 5 seconds the following day. Note: it might take a week to a few weeks before you are able to advance your time. Allow your body time to work up to a longer time frame.

Frequency: 1 time a day

Core ExerciseFrom a seated position, place the exercise ball on top of your knees. Maintain an upright posture while engaging your abdominals as you push against the ball.

Change in balance is one of the most common reasons older adults seek assistance from a doctor, according to the National Institute on Aging. “You don’t have to wait for it to become a problem to be proactive,” says Jennifer Franks, Physical Therapist at Messiah Lifeways. It’s important for older adults to exercise regularly and strengthen their bodies, especially their core, when it comes to balance. There are many low-impact, easy exercises that can be done and only take a few minutes. Try the exercises to the right demonstrated by Jennifer and Messiah Village Resident, Robert Loych. Take note that there are various levels for each exercise depending on the participants comfort level. Always remember to have someone with sturdy balance standing nearby to assist if the exercise becomes challenging.

Balancing Proactive Health

Length of time and frequency for the following exercises is based on each person’s level of comfort. See the suggestions above to get started.

To learn more about Messiah Lifeways Rehab, visit MessiahLifeways.org/Rehab

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Balance Exercise 1Stand with your feet together and arms across your chest, practice keeping your balance without swaying.

Balance Exercise 2As balance exercise 1 becomes easier, try placing one foot in front of the other. Using a chair for support, hold a balanced pose based on the suggested time frames on page 2.

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“Back home to what I love.”When Bob realized he’d need knee replacement surgery, he immediately requested Messiah Lifeways Rehab.

Bob had utilized Messiah Lifeways’ rehab services for a previous injury, and his experience made a strong impression. “What made it different was the quality of care I received,” Bob remembered. “Each of the physical therapists brought with them a serious professionalism.” He also appreciated the private rooms, quality meals, and accommodating atmosphere.

But a lot changed in Bob’s life since his first visit to Messiah Lifeways Rehab. “I live alone since my wife passed away,” Bob explained. “My time with Messiah Lifeways Rehab allowed me to return home fully capable of caring for myself. They arranged my home care services and followed up regularly to see that all was well with me.”

Now, in addition to enjoying independence at home, Bob has been able to resume some of his favorite activities: training dogs and riding horses! “I am expecting two puppies in three weeks,” he shared. “They afford me unconditional love and little drama. I look forward to being able to train them in the field.”

“When you’re injured or healing from an accident or surgery, you want to be in the care of competent caring individuals who have your best interest at heart,” Bob reflected. “I found that both times I needed such care at Messiah Lifeways Rehab.”

Discover your ability to heal with independence through Messiah Lifeways Rehab. Call 717.790.8225 or visit MessiahVillage.org/STRehab.

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10 Early Indicators of Dementia

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “Dementia is the overall term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in memory or other thinking skills severe enough to reduce a person's ability to perform everyday activities.” Memory loss and declining communication and language skills are two examples.

Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia accounting for 60% to 80% of cases. Though there are no cures for dementia, consulting with a physician who can diagnose and treat with medications and interventions can slow the progression of certain symptoms. The Alzheimer’s Association stresses that “early [recognition]

and detection matters,” so if you notice one or more of the signs or symptoms below, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

If you or your loved is showing one or more of these signs, there’s no need to panic. It could be that a medication, poor hearing, or even poor sleeping and eating habits are contributing to these symptoms. But working with a doctor to determine the course of action is a great starting point. Visit Alz.org for lots of great advice, articles, online courses and checklists, and to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, the symptoms, causes, treatments, stages, research, and progress.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure

4. Confusion with time or place

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

8. Decreased or poor judgment

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities

10. Changes in mood and personality

For more information and guidance, please contact Messiah Lifeways Coaching at 717.591.7225 or email coach@messiahlifeways.org.

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Flaxseed: A Healthy Alternative

• Lowers blood cholesterol and blood sugar levels. The soluble fiber in flaxseed has been shown to lower cholesterol, helping to prevent the buildup of plaque, which can clog arteries and lead to high blood pressure, stroke, or heart attack. Fiber is also believed to lower blood sugar levels, which is important for people who have type 2 diabetes.

• Improves digestive health. The fiber in flaxseed can help relieve constipation and make you more regular.

• Increases immunity. Flaxseed is a mega-source of the plant version of the omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA has been shown to decrease inflammation, which allows your immune system to function better. Preliminary research suggests that flaxseed can help relieve autoimmune and inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and lupus.

• Fights cancer. Studies show that flaxseed may have a role in fighting cancer, particularly colon and breast cancer. The benefit is based on its high concentration of lignans, which are believed to inhibit tumor growth.

Ancient grains and seeds have seen a resurgence in popularity over recent years. Not only do they make frequent appearances in trendy Mediterranean diets, but they have numerous health benefits as well. The search for wheat alternatives and fiber-rich foods has inspired chefs and home cooks alike to utilize these ingredients in creative new ways.

Messiah Lifeways’ dining services team is no exception. A recent seasonal special in Village Square’s cozy dining option, Café 100, featured oats, flaxseeds, and almond milk – all trending, nutrient-rich ingredients that contributed to the delicious plate, “Flaxseed Green Power Pancakes.”

While all this talk of oats and flax may just sound like a game of Pit, it’s worth seriously considering how you can work these plant-based ingredients into your diet. Here are some little-known health benefits of flaxseed, specifically, from EveryDayHealth.com:

Don’t let trending ingredients intimidate you! Take advantage of the health benefits today by giving the tasty recipe on the next page a try.

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SERVING SIZE 2 Pancakes

YIELD 7 Servings

CULINARY TECHNIQUE Griddle & Puree

Featured Flavors: Spinach, Whole Wheat, Flaxseeds, Banana Contains: Oats, Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Wheat

FLAXSEED GREEN POWER PANCAKES

1. Place flaxseeds and oats in blender and process until flour consistency, approximately 30 seconds. Place in mixing bowl and add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, combine dry ingredients.

2. In blender add almond milk, spinach, sweet potato, and maple syrup and puree until smooth for 30 seconds.

3. Add pureed spinach and sweet potato to dry ingredients, add water, and mix until smooth. Batter will thicken as it rests and additional water may be needed to loosen batter by adding ¼ cup as needed.

4. To prepare pancakes, preheat griddle to 450°F or large non stick sauté pan to medium high heat. Spray with canola cooking oil and portion ½ cup ladle of batter per pancake onto hot griddle or pan. Cook 3 minutes on first side and then turn pancake and cook 2.5–3 minutes on other side. Do not hold hot more than 15 minutes for best quality.

5. To prepare warm banana topping: Cut 4 oz banana into ½” slices. Preheat griddle or non stick pan to medium high and spray with cooking oil. Brown each side of banana slices for 20 seconds per side and be careful not to overcook.

6. Plating: Place bananas on two pancakes, top with ½ oz sliced almonds, and ½ oz dried cranberries.

7. For a non-vegan option suggest an egg cooked to order. Prepare 1 egg to order and place on top of pancakes with ¼ cup chiffonade spinach for garnish.

INSTRUCTIONSINGREDIENTS 2½ cup Whole wheat flour

1 cup Oats

½ cup Flaxseed

2 tbsp Baking powder

1 tsp Iodized salt

2 cup Unsweetened almond milk

2 cup Water

6 oz Fresh sweet potatoes, cooked

4½ oz Fresh baby spinach

¼ cup Maple syrup pure dark +2 tbsp

1 lb, 12 oz Banana, fresh

3½ oz Almonds, slivered

3½ oz Cranberries, dried

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The Comfort of Planning Ahead

Bob and Carolyn Mann always had a long-term plan to move to Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village. They agreed that when the time came, they’d choose an apartment home, rather than a cottage. After receiving an invitation to visit campus and take a tour, they found the perfect apartment and decided to sign up and make the move!

Reflecting on the move now, Bob shares, “In looking back, it was good we moved when we did. We still had the vigor and strength to downsize from the house where we lived for almost 40 years. It was a comfort to make the move while we had the strength to pick up a box of stuff and move it across the room without help. It is painful to think of sitting on a chair while directing another person to “bring me that box” and “put this one over there.”

Another benefit of the Manns’ earlier-than-planned move was that they have health and energy to enjoy leisure activities, trips, and social gatherings that pave the way for making new friends. They especially love their Village Commons home because of its versatility. “We can shut the door and be alone, but we can also easily go out and be with others.” The Commons Lobby is always an inviting and bustling place with the Paxton Street coffee shop, mailboxes, shuttle stop, and lobby outside the Fireside Grille. “The building’s design provides a natural meeting place to learn to know your neighbors.”

Bob and Carolyn especially appreciate the convenience offered in the Village Commons because so many vital amenities are under one roof. “Meals in the Fireside Grille, coffee at Paxton Street, the fitness room, the Salon, and terrace and hobby room – and the Rooftop Library, a haven for book lovers and card enthusiasts.” Bob particularly enjoys the wood shop where craftspeople can work on personal projects or make items to benefit the Village. The Manns are happy in their apartment, with its views of a beautiful campus. They gladly note that “almost every window looks out to a patch of beauty!”

Discover how you can plan ahead and find a delightfully right-sized and convenient home at Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village. Call 717.306.9588 or visit MessiahVillage.org/ApartmentLiving

Bob and Carolyn Mann

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Bob and Carolyn Mann

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Let the Games Begin!

Residents Showcase their Athletic Prowess in the Lancaster Senior GamesMore than 100 medals and trophies won. Countless opponents defeated. A family of athletes spanning three decades. No, this is not the Mannings or the Williams sisters — it is the Burke family! The Burke family has long been a competitive force at the Lancaster Senior Games. Paul (81) and Joan (79), residents of Messiah Lifeways at Mount Joy Country Homes, have been competing in the Lancaster Senior Games for more than 21 years. Before they were old enough to compete in the Games themselves, they could be found in the stands, cheering on Joan’s parents who loved to participate and won many gold medals.

Both Paul and Joan grew up in Lancaster County, and the sounds of a roaring crowd and the local baseball announcer could be heard throughout their households from the transistor radio. Both of their fathers had a love of baseball. Paul’s love of competition started at young age. Before the days of little league and car pool, boys of the 1950s joined the local town sports teams. Driven by his love of the game, Paul joined the men’s baseball team at 12 years old. The smell of the fresh cut grass, the dirt flying on the diamond, players rounding the bases, and the sound of a wooden bat connecting with a baseball became the soundtrack of his life.

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Residents Showcase their Athletic Prowess in the Lancaster Senior GamesJoan also grew up in a sports-loving family, but as the only girl in her family of boys, Joan didn’t have much of a choice. She was expected to participate whether she wanted to or not! Although Joan vowed to never marry someone who loved baseball, all changed when she met Paul. It was love right from the start, and after 61 years of marriage and 3 sons, Paul and Joan still love every minute together. Paul’s love for the game won Joan over, and both Paul and Joan inspired their sons to love sports as well. Paul was the baseball and football coach for his boys, and Joan was a faithful sports mom, always cheering them on. Now the tables have turned, as their sons and grandchildren cheer on Paul and Joan at this year’s Lancaster Senior Games.

Since moving to Messiah Lifeways at Mount Joy Country Homes in October 2016, Paul and Joan have encouraged their new friends and neighbors to participate in the Games. Many were hesitant at first, but once they experienced the camaraderie felt at the Games, more and more people began to participate. Along with Paul and Joan, 15 residents will be competing in a variety of games including Shuffle Board, Bocce Ball, Horseshoe, Shot-Put, Soccer, Home-Run Derby, Javelin Throwing, and so much more!

The Lancaster Games kick off on May 6 with Opening Ceremonies at Spooky Nook Sports and last until May 10 when the Games will close with a banquet celebrating the success of all the athletes. If Paul and Joan’s family tradition continues, they will surely take home many more trophies to commemorate their victories!

Bocce Ball. These competitors are ready to break some records.

18-Hole Golf. Paul, featured on the cover, is ready to crush the golf course.

Corn Hole. This powerful crew is always ready for a friendly Corn Hole competition.

provided a generous commitment to name the Wesley Courtyard at Village Square. This beautiful outdoor space complete with well-appointed outdoor furniture, a large fire pit, and a spacious patio with plenty of room for socializing, has already hosted a variety of fun events, including a Hawaiian BBQ and pig roast. Outdoor musical performances, themed events, and casual get-togethers around the fire are opportunities for future use of this lovely area.

On a balmy Saturday evening in September, Jill and Wes invited their extended families to join them for dinner in the Heisey Room in Kathryn’s on the Square, followed by an evening of fellowship in Wesley Courtyard. Together, they roasted marshmallows, talked, and savored a perfect evening. Wes used this opportunity to share with their family and their children why they have chosen to invest their time and their philanthropy here. He talked about what it takes to have a vision, plant the seeds, and then wait for the vision to come to fruition. “Over the years, Jill and I have seen that there is something special at Messiah Village,” Wes says. “It’s not always easy to define it, but it’s there every time we visit campus. The friendliness of residents, the willingness of people to give of themselves to bless their neighbors, the generosity that has shaped the community over the years...we are happy to be part of that.”

More than $2.3 million was given as part of the Project Envision campaign – and we are very grateful to the donors who have invested in the future of Messiah Lifeways by participating in this visionary initiative.

For more information about giving at Messiah Lifeways visit MessiahLifeways.org/Giving

Wes and Jill Carr are passionate about their faith, their family, and their community. Thanks to Wes’s long-time service to Messiah Lifeways as a member of the Board of Directors, the Carrs are also passionate about our mission of enhancing the lives of older adults with Christ-like love. Having played a role in providing guidance and direction as a Board member, Wes saw the value of the Project Envision campaign that was designed to support the Village Square expansion, enable renovations in nursing neighborhoods, and provide beautiful, welcoming spaces for community building, indoor and outdoor entertainment, lifelong learning, and casual get-togethers. That is why Wes and Jill

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Caring and Sharing: The Carrs

Wes and Jill Carr and their two sons.

Events

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Greater Harrisburg Concert BandSunday, July 28 | 7:00 pm | Nittany Lawn or Messiah Village Chapel in case of rain

Looking for something relaxing to do on a warm summer evening? Enjoy the beautiful music performed by these talented musicians.

Books are Fun FairMonday, June 24 | 8:00 am – 3:00 pmMessiah Village Compass Pointe Place

Shop for yourself or find a great read to give as a gift. The Books are Fun Fair provides a wide range of books for adults and children.

Singing Men Closing ProgramSunday, June 9 | 2:00 pmMessiah Village ChapelJoin the Singing Men and friends as they present an enjoyable afternoon of hymns and old time gospel songs.

Power of Music TherapyHOSTED BY MESSIAH LIFEWAYS COACHING

Wednesday, May 22 | 5:30 pm – 7:30 pmHostetter Enrichment Center, Village SquareKristyn Beeman, Board Certified Music Therapist & Certified Dementia Practitioner, presents “The Power of Music Therapy: Helping Those with Dementia & Other Neurological Impairments.” Learn how music therapy helps those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia diagnoses to decrease agitation, increase communication, interact with others, recall and process

memories, increase range of motion, participate in reality-based interactions, express and process feelings in a supportive environment, and improve quality of life.

This event is open to families, team members, and other healthcare professionals.

A light dinner will be served. Space is limited, so please RSVP by calling 717.591.7225 or online at MessiahLifeways.org/Events by May 16. Fee: $10.00 (pay at the door)

Make Medicare an Easy StepHOSTED BY MESSIAH LIFEWAYS COACHING

Wednesday, July 17 5:30 pm – 7:00 pmHostetter Enrichment Center, Village Square

Join us as Bill Parson, Certified Senior Advisor® from Everence ®, presents on the basics of Medicare. Topics will include:• Signing up for Medicare: how, when and where.• What Medicare covers (and does not cover).• Medicare Parts A, B, C and D, in clear, understandable language.• Budgeting for health care costs in retirement.A light dinner will be served. Space is limited, so please RSVP by calling 717.591.7225 or online at MessiahLifeways.org/Events by July 11. Fee: $10.00 (pay at the door)

Spaghetti DinnerThursday, August 22 | 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Messiah Village Community Room

Come and enjoy a delicious spaghetti dinner prepared by the talented chefs at Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village. Dinner includes all-you-can-eat garden salad, spaghetti and garlic bread. Carry out orders available. Cost is $9.00

Hopewell Personal Care

100 Mt. Allen Drive Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717.697.4666 MessiahLifeways.org

The official registration and financial information of Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free, within PA, 1.800.732.0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

To be removed from our mailing lists, call 717.790.8201

NON PROFIT US POSTAGE

GREENCASTLE PA PERMIT NO. 10

100 Mt. Allen Drive, Mechanicsburg | MessiahVillage.org/PersonalCare

The Life You Want. The Care You Need.

* Must financially qualify to move in.Move into Hopewell and enjoy 1 month FREE and we will waive your $500 reservation fee*.

Making a move to Hopewell at Messiah Lifeways at Messiah Village brings peace of mind and more:

• Large personal care apartments with a distinct bedroom and easy-to-navigate bathroom

• Engaging activities from trivia and movie nights to picnics and trips

• Benefit from the continuum of other on-campus services such as memory support, rehab, and skilled nursing

Arrange your private tour today. For more information, call 717.287.1547